martinique travel cost

• Travel Planning Guide

How much does a trip to Martinique Cost?

How much money should you budget for your trip to Martinique?

• How much does a one-week trip to Martinique cost?
• How much does a two-week trip to Martinique cost?
• How much does a one-month trip to Martinique cost?
• Hostel Prices
• Hotel Prices

The Cost of a Trip to Martinique

A trip to Martinique for one person usually costs between $78 and $349 per day and $155 to $698 for two people. This is a wide range of costs, and the daily average per person from our data is $179 (€164) per person. This average includes food, accommodation, sightseeing, and local transportation expenses contributed from other travelers. Prices can vary based on travel style and activities. While the overall price for a trip to Martinique is dependent on your personal travel style and the specific places you visit, if you book standard accommodation and travel with an average level of convenience, then your budget should be somewhere within this range. Also, the prices for individual destinations such as may vary, but generally fall somewhat close to this range. Below you can find a breakdown of travel expenses by category, plus a comparison of guided tour costs versus traveling independently.

If you're considering an independent trip to Martinique, it's helpful to have an idea of the amount of money you'll need. For budget travelers, planning to spend around $78 (€71) per day should cover your essential expenses, including affordable accommodations like hostels and budget hotels, cost-effective meal options, local transportation, and affordable activities. For those with a mid-range budget, allocating around $179 (€164) per day would allow for more comfortable hotels, dining at typical restaurants, and exploring a range of popular attractions. Luxury travelers, on the other hand, should anticipate a daily budget of $349 (€321), which would encompass higher-end accommodations, dining at nicer restaurants, and indulging in private tour options. It's worth noting that these price ranges are based on extensive travel cost data for Martinique from fellow travelers, as well as insights from travel companies regarding hotel and tour prices. For further details on travel costs, you can refer to our comprehensive travel cost data for Martinique .

How much does a one week trip to Martinique cost?

When planning a one-week trip to Martinique, most visitors to Martinique spend between $544 and $2,444 for their trip, with the average cost falling around $1,252. This estimate includes essential aspects such as sightseeing, local transportation, food, and accommodations. With a full week, you'll have sufficient time to explore one, two, or possibly three locations within Martinique, depending on the amount of time you want to spend in each place. The most popular places worth considering are . Keep in mind that these numbers are based on overall averages and may vary depending on your individual preferences.

How much does a two week trip to Martinique cost?

With two weeks, you should budget between $1,088 and $4,887 for your trip to Martinique. The average price for a two week trip is $2,504. Two weeks will allow you enough time to visit between three and five places. If you're on a budget, you might want to consider some of the more affordable places such as Fort-de-France.

How much does a one month trip to Martinique cost?

With a month-long trip to Martinique, expenses can be anywhere from $2,332 to $10,472 with the average being $5,365. The cost of travel is dependent on your overall style of travel. If you have a full month, you'll likely want to stay at a vacation rental with a kitchen during at least part of your trip so that you can prepare your own meals. Backpackers often prefer hostels for the same reason. Hostels also offer a more social atmosphere at a very affordable price range.

Hotel Prices in Martinique

You'll find a wide range of hotel options across Martinique. Below are prices for some of the destinations, and for more details see our analysis of hotel costs in Martinique .

Should you do an organized tour or travel independently in Martinique?

When planning a trip to Martinique, there are two primary options to choose from: organized tours and independent travel. Organized tours offer a convenient and hassle-free experience, as all the details of your trip are handled by travel experts. Additionally, you'll have the benefit of an expert guide who can provide valuable insights and knowledge during your journey. This option is often favored by travelers who appreciate the convenience and ease it offers, with many tours providing transportation and expert guides to enhance the overall experience.

On the other hand, independent travel provides a different set of advantages. It offers a higher level of freedom and flexibility, allowing you to customize your itinerary and explore at your own pace. This option appeals to travelers who value the ability to make spontaneous decisions and have more control over their travel plans. The independence of traveling on your own can provide a sense of adventure and the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture on a deeper level.

Ultimately, the choice between organized tours and independent travel depends on your personal preferences and travel style. Consider your desired level of convenience, the amount of guidance you prefer, and the level of flexibility you seek when making your decision. Both options have their own merits, and the decision should be based on what aligns best with your travel goals and preferences.

Comparing Trip Costs in Martinique

When we compare the prices of organized tours to the average costs of independent travelers, we can see that sometimes the prices are fairly even.

Tours vs. independent Travel: Pros & Cons

Organized tours.

• An expert guide familiar with the culture
• Convenient transportation
• Fellow travelers to socialize with
• Well researched activities
• Efficient and thought out itinerary
• The security of have a trip leader if something goes wrong
• Limited options
• Usually not customizable
• The fast pace often means you can’t visit one place in depth
• Usually more expensive than independent travel
• There may be limited time to interact with the local culture and community

Independent Travel

• Completely customizable
• Opportunity to visit off-the-beaten-path destinations
• Can fully immerse yourself in the local culture
• Freedom to move at your own pace
• Flexibility to change your itinerary at any time
• More affordable
• Challenging to plan an efficient itinerary
• Transportation may be challenging or inefficient
• Booking and trip planning can be a hassle
• Popular sights may sell out well in advance
• If something goes wrong, you're on your own

Are organized tours more expensive than independent travel in Martinique?

Organized tours average $263 per day in Martinique, and are generally all-inclusive with one large payment. Independent trips usually average $179 (€164) per day, and include individual payments to hotels, local transportation, food, and sightseeing. When compared, organized tours and independent trips each come with their own set of challenges and benefits. It's important to understand all aspects of both types of trips to make a fair comparison. You can see our thorough analysis of tour prices in Martinique here .

Here are a few sample tours in Martinique:

• Exploring the Wonders of Martinique 8Days/7nights ($3,523) 8 days, 1 destinations more details
• Martinique - St.Lucia ($1,125) 7 days, 2 destinations more details
• Island Hopping Dominica & French Antilles ($4,246) 13 days, 11 destinations more details
• Grenadines Experience ($2,154) 12 days, 7 destinations more details
• Sail Lesser Antilles ($4,775) 21 days, 3 destinations more details

More for Martinique

If you're planning a trip to Martinique, check out these other informative travel guides.

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works .

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Martinique Prices & Travel Costs

As an overseas territory of France, the island of Martinique is officially part of France and Europe as well. It’s a fairly large volcanic island with a great number of towns and settlements spread on both coasts, mostly in the center and southern part of the island.

Travel Costs to Martinique

Accommodation costs in martinique.

The island of Martinique has nearly 30 hotels and resorts with a wide mix of styles and price ranges. There are simple hotels and modest bed & breakfasts in some areas with large and luxurious resorts in others. Prices range greatly as well, with the low-end (for the Caribbean) represented fairly well.

>>> Check today’s Martinique resort & package deals

Martinique Hotel Seasons

December to the end of April make up the high season when prices are up and the crowds are bigger. May to November make up the low season where prices tend to be at their lowest. If you visit during the months of July and August, you’ll see that prices have leveled out.

Martinique Hotel Prices

Martinique hostels prices, martinique attractions prices, martinique food and drink prices, featured articles, martinique transport prices, getting to martinique.

Visitors will be flying into Martinique Aimé Césaire International Airport near the center of the island. It’s large enough to handle long-haul flights from North America and Europe.

Nonstop flights from: San Juan, Miami, Montreal, Paris

When to visit Martinique

Temperature and rainfall, martinique weather advice.

An outdoor enthusiast’s playground, Martinique offers activities all around coupled with great weather.

With an average temperature falling between 75 and 85 degrees and hugged by the trade winds, you’ll find that the island’s humidity doesn’t end up getting the best of you.

There is however a hurricane season at the end of summer and a rainy season that lasts from June into October.

Sunrise and sunset

Where to go before and after.

Martinique Travel Guide

Useful tips.

Everything you need to know before you fly to Martinique 

Average Trip Cost

December to May

Ideal Length Of Stay

7 to 14 days

About Martinique

Martinique is the embodiment of the French Caribbean.   An overseas department of France, it provides the same feeling and aura of a European city on a Caribbean island.  But Martinique isn’t merely the transposing of a culture on its sandy shores.  It has a lure all its own.  

Sandy beaches and beautiful water aside, Martinique is considered one of the Caribbean’s most beautiful islands because of the stunning flora that thrives there, the tropical birds that consider this island flanked by the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic ocean an oasis, and the friendly people that great you at every turn.  The incredible mix of things to do on this island will please any outdoor enthusiast.  If you like sandy beaches and water sports, this island has them in abundance.  If you enjoy hiking, Martinique has vast rainforests and mountain ranges to explore.  For those who would rather spend time delving into the history of the place, the island’s ties to Napoleon will more than satisfy their curiosity.  And the food… don’t forget – this is France, Caribbean style.  The food is outstanding.  An inspired mix of French and Caribbean flavors, the gastronomic experience in Martinique is like nowhere else in the world. 

Are you a daredevil at heart?  Visit Mount Pelee, the volcano that erupted in 1902, leaving only two survivors out of a town that had over 30,000 inhabitants.  Hike one of the trails.  Get inside the jail cell that saved the only two survivors and imagine what they saw from this vantage point.  It will be an experience to remember for the rest of your life.

Here’s something interesting about Martinique:  it has been featured in several Hollywood films.  To Have and Have Not (1944), Concorde Affaire ’79 (1979), Sugar Cane Alley (1983), and The Thomas Crown Affair (1999), among others, all had scenes that featured Martinique.  The island’s beautiful scenery and alluring disposition make it a favorite all over the world.

If you want to experience all of what the Caribbean can provide, visit Martinique.  The island’s charm, history, and beauty will astound you.  You can explore, relax, partake, and enjoy without a crowd of people around you.  There are many spots that you can claim all your own.  Enjoy Martinique for its serenity; it’s aesthetic beauty, and it’s natural comfort.  

Where To Stay In Martinique

Visitors to Martinique stay in a wide variety of accommodations, including private rental, guesthouses, and luxurious all-inclusive hotels.  Some of the best hotels in Martinique include: 

• Cap Est Lagoon Resort & Spa 
• Club Med Buccaneer’s Creek
• Hotel La Pagerie 
• La Suite Villa Hotel & Spa 
• Residence Hoteliere Les Cayalines 
• Carayou Hotel & Spa
• Hotel French Coco

Activities In Martinique

Major tourist activities in martinique include:.

• Swimming and relaxing at Les Salines one of the most beautiful and famous beaches on Martinique 
• Checking out the studios and shops at Village de la Poterie des Trois-Ilets
• Hiking the Presqu’ile de la Caravelle or Mount Pelée, an active volcano
• Surfing the waves at Anse l’Etang Beach
• Touring Musée de la Pagerie, a former sugar plantation 
• Checking out the wildlife at Zoo Martinique and Le Carbet
• Sampling the rum at one or more of Martinique’s ten rum distilleries

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Facts about martinique.

1,100 square miles 

Population:

Official language:, capital city:.

Fort-de-France

Government:

Telephone country code:.

right side of the road

Local Beer:

National dish:.

Columbo of chicken with white rice

Main Airport:

Martinique Aimé Césaire International Airport

Electricity:

220 V/50 Hz – plugs are European standard with two round prongs

Visa Information For Martinique

Martinique is an Overseas Department of France, and as such French immigration rules apply.  That said, no visa is required for citizens of the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France, and most other European countries.  

All visitors to Martinique must have a passport with at least another six months’ validity. Furthermore, all visitors must have a return or onward ticket plus sufficient means to support themselves during their stay in Martinique. 

How Long Does It Take To Get A Visa For Martinique

With a valid passport and supporting documents, it can take between 5 to 20 working days for a Martinique (French) visa application to be processed by the nearest French Embassy. Approved visas for entry to Martinique are valid for a stay up to 90 days.  

Is It Safe In Martinique

In comparison to major American and European cities, Martinique is relatively safe, and crime levels are low. That said, it is though recommended that visitors be vigilant at all times, especially when away from the major hotels and tourist areas. 

How To Get To Martinique

Most visitors to Martinique arrive via the Martinique Aimé Césaire International Airport (IATA:FDF, ICAO:TFFF), located in Le Lamentin , a suburb of the capital Fort-de-France.

From Canada, book flights to Martinique via:

• Air Canada Montreal – Trudeau
• Air Transat (Seasonal): Montreal – Trudeau, Toronto – Pearson

From the United States, book flights to Martinique via:

• American Airlines (Seasonal): Miami
• American Eagle: Miami

From Europe, book flights to Martinique via:

Air Caraibes: Paris – Orly

Air Belgium: Charleroi

Air France: Paris – Orly, (Seasonal charter: Paris – Charles de Gaulle)

Condor (Seasonal charter): Frankfurt

Corsair International: Paris – Orly

Level: Paris – Orly

Within the Caribbean region, book flights to Martinique via:

• Air Antilles: Barbados, Castries, Dominica-Canefield, Dominica – Douglas-Charles, Pointe-à-Pitre
• Air Caraibes: Castries, Pointe-à-Pitre
• Air France: Pointe-à-Pitre

From Latin America, book flights to Martinique via:

• Air France: Cayenne
• GOL (Seasonal charter): São Paulo

When To Go To Martinique

The most popular time to visit Martinique is from mid-December to mid-April when the weather is warm, sunny, and typically dry.  From August to late October is the low season as temperatures are hot and muggy; also, there is an increased risk of tropical storms.  Many hotels offer deep discounts during the low season.

Major events attracting visitors to Martinique include: 

• February/March: Martinique Carnival 
• June: Fête de la Musique
• July: Tour Cycliste de la Martinique
• November: Fort-de-France International Half Marathon
• December: Martinique Jazz Festival 

Weather In Martinique

The weather in Martinique is tropical all year round.  The temperature ranges between 72° F to 86° F.  Inland temperatures can drop to as low as 66° F.  The trade winds bring a magnificent breeze that keeps the island temperature comfortable.  June through November is the rainy season, but the storms are relatively short and pass through quickly.  

Getting Married In Martinique

Marriage requirements:.

A couple wishing to get married in Martinique will need to apply for a special license, which takes three weeks to process.  This can be obtained from the Town Hall in the city where the marriage will take place.   

Documents Required:

In addition to the completed application for marriage, both the bride and groom will need their:

• birth certificates along with driver’s licenses or other forms of identification
• certificates of no impediment or single status report
• certificate of good conduct;
• a medical certificate with blood test issued within three months before the planned wedding

Also, if applicable: 

• divorce papers i.e., decree absolute and/or death certificate of spouse
• proof of parental consent if under 18, stamped and signed by a solicitor
• proof of name change by Deed Poll, stamped and signed by a solicitor

Note: All documents must be presented in French and notarized.

Residency Requirement:

Either the bride or groom will need to be on the island for at least 30 days before marriage.

Witnesses: 

Two witnesses must be present at the ceremony.

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Your Martinique Vacation

Book a vacation package to Martinique and make planning your adventure a breeze. With all the details organized before you leave, you can focus on enjoying every minute in this wonderful destination. Why not organize your trip to Martinique around a few of its most popular cities? Trois-Ilets , Fort-de-France and Schoelcher are all excellent places to start. When it's time to stop daydreaming and start doing, Expedia will help turn your Martinique vacation into reality.

Top destinations in Martinique

Fort-de-France

Trois-Ilets

Sainte-Luce

Sainte-Marie

Saint-Pierre

Sainte-Anne

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Frequently asked questions, discover the most popular places to visit in martinique, cruise terminal.

Explore the waterfront in Fort-de-France with a trip to Cruise Terminal. While you're in the area, stroll along the beautiful beaches.

Diamond Rock

Explore the great outdoors at Diamond Rock, a lovely green space in Le Diamant. Wander the beautiful beaches in this quaint area.

Pointe du Bout Beach

If a restful vacation is part of your travel plans, Pointe du Bout Beach might be the perfect place to seek out during your trip to Pointe du Bout.

What to do in Martinique

Ti punch & accras cooking class, scenic tropical island tour, excursions in the north or in the south of martinique, other vacations you might like.

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A First-Time Traveler's Guide to Martinique

Contributor

Martinique — Saint Lucia’s overlooked sister island— is a captivating combination of deep rainforest, rocky cliffside terrain, Creole-inspired cuisine, and the calmest, clearest water you’ll ever encounter. The French Caribbean island is over 430sqkm (166sqkm) of rugged paradise that is best explored by car, as each corner of the isle has something spectacular to offer. Go trekking in the north, kayaking in the west, and surfing in the east, all the while eating fancy cheese or freshly-caught fish alongside a refreshing rum punch.

The blend of French and West Indian cultures have created a unique island that is raw and untouched, while also catering to the affluent French tourists that vacation to Martinique once a year. Keep in mind: having a basic French vocabulary will go a long way on this secluded island.

Where to stay

Hotel bakoua – les trois-ilets.

The sultry resort area of Pointe du Bout in Les Trois-Ilets sits just across the bay from Fort-de-France, the island’s capital city. Complete with beachfront accommodation, an infinity pool, and four restaurants and bars, the Creole-designed Hotel Bakoua is frequented by first-time travelers and yearly visitors alike.

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Rent an Airbnb

Though many travelers prefer accommodation in the form of hotels, on an island like Martinique — where local tips are key — an Airbnb will take you a long way. With over 300 rentals, ranging from low-key to luxury, you’ll soon realize how far your money goes in Martinique.

Le Diamant is a southeastern town and is home to the island’s longest beach. The luxe Caribbean House on the Sea is a three-bedroom, cliffside haven in this charming town, and overlooks the Marigot Cove (and it’ll cost you a mere $23 USD per person). A little further in the town of Le Marin you’ll find the chic Villa Passe Mon Temps, where $50 USD per person will get you ocean views, an outdoor deck and pool, and two gorgeous poolside bedrooms.

What to eat

Dine at le fromager.

After a 30-minute climb up the winding road from Saint-Pierre, you’re met with Le Fromager to your left: an unassuming, red-roofed restaurant perched atop a cliff. Decorated with wooden tables and chairs, the open-aired space overlooks Turin Cove and the rooftops of the alluring Saint-Pierre. Just as enticing, however, is the inexpensive and appetizing Creole menu. Feast on a fresh vivaneau (red snapper) or local lambi (queen conch) while sipping on a refreshing tropical juice. Visit on a Sunday afternoon, when a casual lunch will turn into a local celebration complete with live music, dancing and delicious Martinique food .

Don’t overlook the roadside vendors

Although there are the “must-go” spots to dine (we are talking about the French Caribbean, after all), Martinique trips are made even better by the street side carts and local eateries. Order the island specialty of grilled fish with steamed rice and ratatouille (or fresh salad) or Poulet Boucane (smoked chicken). Averaging at around €8, these dishes are large enough to feed two and will have you wishing you’d started eating roadside long ago.

Hike the Caravelle Peninsula (Presqu’ile de la Caravelle)

A common local pastime is hiking the jagged terrain of the Caravelle Peninsula. Set along the water’s edge, the headland provides multiple routes and loops. The waves crash against the wild rocks, misting your skin with a welcoming chill. The midday sun seeps through your clothes as you anticipate the next shaded section of the path. As you near your relief, and a casual walk turns into a four-hour trek, you discern voices close by. The trees part and there is au trou cochon: the national park’s watering hole. Literally translating to “pig hole,” this small, covert hangout is scattered with locals spending a lazy Sunday sitting in the unruffled water, sipping on glasses of rose.

Visit the Anse Cafard Slave Memorial

Perched atop Cafard Cove, the slave memorial pays homage to the ship full of slaves that collided with the cliffs of Le Diamant on April 8th, 1830. The group of 15 stone men face the Caribbean Sea and bow their heads in respect, acknowledging the deaths and suffering that occurred at 11pm when crashing and cries shattered the silence of the night. Visiting this outdoor memorial acknowledges an important piece of Martinique’s history, while also providing impressive views over the rough waters of Le Diamant beach.

Lay back on the beaches: Anse Noir and Anse Dufour

On the southwest of the island these two beaches can be found directly beside one another. So what is so unique about these Caribbean coves? Besides being known as a spectacular snorkeling spot (you’re likely to spot a turtle or two), Anse Noir is also recognized for its jet black sand; a highlight of many Martinique trips.

The contrast of the black sand, Tanqueray-green water, and surrounding bold greenery, makes “Black Cove” a truly charming sight. Just a few minute’s walk around the bay will lead you to Anse Noir’s white-sand sister beach, Anse Dufour. Palm trees and local food shacks adorn the small cove while locals fill the transparent water, throwing a frisbee or just passing time.

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5 Essential Tips for Planning a Martinique Vacation

As soon as we returned from our Martinique vacation I knew there were a few tips that I needed to share with everyone planning a trip to Martinique. But first, let me explain why we ended up in Martinique for spring break .

I actually won a free trip to Martinique at a travel event that I attended. The prize from Martinique Tourism included round-trip airfare for two and three nights at the five-star La Suite Villa Hotel in Trois-Ilets. Since we didn’t want to fly to the Caribbean for such a short trip, we decided to extend our stay with three nights at the Club Med Buccaneer’s Creek .

Since we were able to stay in two parts of the island and use our rental car to explore other areas, we were able to get a better sense of what the island is like for a Martinique vacation.

Martinique Vacation Planning Tips

Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission. This does not impact the advice I provide as I stand behind my recommendations and all opinions are my own.

If you are planning a trip to Martinique, here are the things that you have to know.

1. Martinique is not Your Typical resort island – But There are some Gems

When you think of the Caribbean, it is easy to think of long stretches of sandy beaches lined with sprawling resorts. Places like the Dominican Republic are known for their all-inclusive resorts, and others like Turks & Caicos are known for beautiful beaches.

There are some islands, like Jamaica, where you go and never really leave the resort except perhaps for an excursion to Dunn’s River Falls.

It really isn’t like that in Martinique. Martinique is one of the eighteen regions of France (obviously one of its overseas regions.) It is a living and working island of nearly 400,000 people, with its main industries being construction, rum (from the sugar cane grown on the island), oil refinery, cement, sugar, and tourism. The island is neither posh nor impoverished.

As a mountainous island, the beaches are more limited and many of them are relatively small and rocky. The glittering lights of towns dot these hillsides and driving through the island you will find all the things needed to sustain its population — stores, schools, farms, neighborhoods, etc.

Small hotels are clustered around these beach areas and in the city of Fort-de-France, where the cruise ships dock and where you will find the international airport.

The nicest beach is down in St. Anne, and the Club Med Buccaneer’s Creek , where we stayed, is much more like a typical Caribbean resort than what we saw in other parts of the island. The south in general is lusher, with rolling hills and sugar cane plantations.

The island is known for its culinary scene, with a mix of French and Creole influences. However, you won’t find any well-known American or high-end international hotel brands.  I would also say that the hotel ratings don’t compare to similar ratings in the United States and major European cities.

Because of the smaller hotels, you will also find many visitors rent homes or apartments and walk to local beaches and restaurants. It is definitely a destination for the more independent and intrepid traveler than someone that likes to be pampered and have U.S.-level five-star service and amenities.

Where to Stay on Martinique

While I was here, we went to look at a few other hotels and one I really liked for families was the Hotel Bambou . Although only rated two stars, they have very cute bungalows for families (and suites/rooms for adults only too), as well as full amenities — pools, beach access, restaurant, bar, water sports, etc.

Hotel Bakoua is also a full-service hotel resort on a small beach, offering connecting rooms and suites for families. The rooms here were a little more worn looking and didn’t have the same charm as Hotel Bambou but more rooms are beachfront.

If you don’t care about a beachfront location, La Suite Villa is truly lovely, especially for couples. While not on the beach, La Suite Villa is just a 15-minute walk into town and nearby beaches, nestled on a hill overlooking the harbor. From town, you can catch a ferry over to the capital of Fort-de-France (saving you from the 45-minute drive.)

La Suite Villa offers the French-Caribbean charm and character that you just won’t find at a beach hotel. We really enjoyed our stay here over and above our stay at Club Med Buccaneer’s Creek from a hotel quality standpoint.

The hotel has a funky, artistic vibe and the bedrooms have a lot of character. Ours included a balcony with a hot tub, which we took full advantage of, in addition to the infinity pool. Dining at La Villa Hotel was a true delight and a chance to appreciate the French-Caribbean influences of Martinique.

2. You really should rent a car

Some of you may have already read on Facebook or Instagram about my debacle upon arriving in Martinique. Hopefully, no one else makes the mistakes that I made but even still, I highly recommend renting a car, and here is why:

• Taxis are expensive. From Fort-de-France to Trois Ilet is 60-80 euro. From Fort-de-France to St. Anne in the south is over 100 euros. Even though I knew this, I thought it would be easier to get a taxi than to rent a car, but I was wrong.
• Taxis do not take credit cards. Unfortunately, they only take cash and only euro, so unless you come equipped with a lot of euros (or forget your ATM card like me), you are out of luck.
• Taxis are hard to find. When we arrived at the airport at 9 pm there were hardly any taxis available. And the ones that were there, were quite picky about who they would and wouldn’t take. So if you are going to an area they don’t want to drive to, tough luck.
• You need to move around . As I mentioned above, this isn’t an island where it is all about the resorts and people don’t leave the resorts. You need to move around. With the exception of Club Med, which is one of the few all-inclusive resorts, you will want to leave your hotel for some meals and possibly to get to the beach or explore other areas. There aren’t lines of taxis around so this can be challenging.
• There is no Uber. Need I say more?

That said, you need to make a reservation in advance. When I arrived, many of the car rental counters were closed for the evening and the ones that were still open would not rent to me without a reservation.

Car rentals are not cheap, but in retrospect, it is worth it because it is actually LESS hassle than finding a cab. The line for Budget / Enterprise was HUGE at the airport so to avoid that mess, you may want to go with another brand like Jumbo Cars (Sixt was closed also when we arrived.)

I typically use Auto Europe when comparing car rental rates overseas .

I ended up renting in Trois Islet and returning to the airport from Europcar. I use Europcar often, so I have a high level of trust in the quality of their vehicles. I usually just search with Auto Europe and book the best deal that comes up.

3. Bring Plenty of Euro cash

As a French region, the currency is the Euro. Perhaps it is different in the cruise port, but in the many shops and restaurants we visited, I saw only one that had a sign showing that they took US dollars. And, as I mentioned earlier, cabs only take euros (no credit cards.)

Most shops and restaurants will take credit cards but a lot of restaurants are small roadside establishments from someone grilling up chickens to food trucks or produce stands.

When you are having trouble finding restaurant availability, this may be your only option (yes, we were turned away from a restaurant without a lunch reservation — I think because they were expecting a tour group.)

Unlike countries like Iceland where virtually everyone took credit cards, I didn’t find quite the same in Martinique so I would make sure you have some cash on hand.

4. Learn Some French

Martinique is part of France. They speak French. Many of their visitors are from France. Until recently with new airline routes opening up, there wasn’t a huge need for locals to speak English outside of the cruise port area.

This can be true in restaurants, shops, and even hotel check-in. It really helps to either brush up on some French phrases (I love DuoLingo for language learning), download an offline French phrase book (I like Fodor’s Travel Phrases app), or keep your phone connected to data to use Google Translate.

Even reading the menus can be a challenge if you are not a French speaker. This got us in some trouble in Paris a few years back, so a menu translator app or Google Translate is key.

5. Watch your Speed When Driving

After my recommendation to rent a car, I need to add that you need to watch your speed. I was a very cautious driver on this trip, many times with locals flying past me when they got the chance.

And still, I woke to an email (in French of course) that notified me of a traffic violation. Apparently, at some point on our travels, I exceeded the speed limit, although it is hard to imagine where, and I was caught by a traffic camera.

Not only do I need to pay a fine to France, but I also had an additional fee to pay with my rental car company. This also happened to us in Iceland, so I think it is a smart but tricky way to generate more revenue for the local government. Driver beware!

Bonus Tip: Avoid the Beach at Dusk or Dark

One more tip is to avoid walking barefoot on the beach at sunset or after dark. There are little sand fleas that like to bite around that time of day. Otherwise, make sure to bring your sunscreen and bug spray, and have fun!

Those are my top tips for planning a Martinique vacation! I hope you don’t make the same mistakes I did (just don’t forget your ATM card and make sure to book a rental car in advance of arrival.)

PIN THIS FOR LATER

Tamara Gruber is the Founder and Publisher of We3Travel. A former marketing executive and travel advisor, Tamara is an award-winning travel writer and recognized expert in family travel. Tamara is a member of SATW and the Adventure Travel Trade Association, and serves on the Board of the Family Travel Association. She is also the publisher of YourTimetoFly.com and the co-host of the Vacation Mavens travel podcast.

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Publish Date: November 26, 2022

6 thoughts on “5 Essential Tips for Planning a Martinique Vacation”

Enjoyed this report as we pulled the trigger on going to Martinique in January for a week. Also enjoyed your Quebec City report as we are planning a mid July week there as well.

I hope you have a great trip!

Hi there…ran across your site while researching Martinique for a week in January for my wife and I. Seems to be booking up fast. Any other suggestions on finding mid range accommodations south side of island other than majors like Booking.com/ T.A./Hotels.com? Best to stay with them? Thanks

Those are my go-to sources for finding hotels too. I would also check the Martinique Tourism website and look at VRBO or Airbnb if you are interested in a vacation rental instead of a hotel.

Thanks, good to know. i knew it is not a very friendly or easy island, your post just confirmed it. But anyway we have to spend day there and I will see reality myself in 2 weeks.

Good luck, I hope you enjoy it!

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• Destinations

Volcanic in origin, Martinique is a mountainous stunner crowned by the still-smoldering Mont Pelée, the volcano that famously wiped out the former capital of St-Pierre in 1902. Offering a striking diversity of landscapes and atmospheres, Martinique is a cosmopolitan and sophisticated island that boasts world-class beaches, top-notch hiking, great culinary experiences, an enormous array of activities and some colourful cultural life.

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Attractions

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Jardin de Balata

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Plage Anse d'Arlet

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Fort St-Louis

Fort-de-France

The hulking fortress that gave the city its name lies on the far side of La Savane and dates from 1640, although most of what stands today is the result…

Anse l'Etang

This palm-fringed beach with coarse golden sand and lots of shade is one of Martinique’s most appealing strands. It's not altogether suitable for swimming…

Zoo de Martinique

One of northern Martinique's biggest attractions, this zoo–botanical garden–historical site almost gives you three for the price of one. Amid the ruins of…

The main beach in Trois-Îlets is a gorgeous stretch of white sand that shelves gradually into a turquoise sea. The views are of Fort-de-France and the…

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St-Pierre’s most impressive ruins are those of the town's 18th-century theater. While most of it was destroyed in the 1902 eruption of Mont Pelée, enough…

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Martinique and beyond

• 1.1 Climate
• 1.2 Terrain
• 1.3 History
• 1.4 Tourist information
• 3 Other destinations
• 4.1 By plane
• 4.2 By boat
• 5.2 By taxi
• 5.4 By boat
• 5.5 By thumb
• 9.2 Shopping
• 15 Stay safe
• 16 Stay healthy

Martinique is a Caribbean island that is an overseas department of France in the Caribbean Sea, north of Saint Lucia and south of Dominica .

The island is dominated by Mount Pelee, which on 8 May 1902 erupted and completely destroyed the city of Saint Pierre , killing 30,000 inhabitants. In the south of the island, there are many beautiful beaches with a lot of tourists. In the north, the rain forests and the black sand beaches are worth seeing. The interior of the island is mountainous.

Understand [ edit ]

Martinique is an overseas department of France and retains both French and Caribbean culture. The island cuisine is a superb blend of French and Creole cooking that is worth trying. The north part of island lures hikers who seek to climb the mountains and explore the rain forests while the southern portions offer shopping and beaches for those who chose to just relax.

Climate [ edit ]

Tropical and humid with an average temperature of 23°C to 30°C. The climate is moderated by trade winds. The rainy season is from June to October and the island is vulnerable to devastating cyclones (hurricanes) every eight years on average.

There are two climatic and three tourist seasons on Martinique. The high season is between December and the end of April, with soaring prices and great crowds of travellers. From May to the end of November, Europeans tend to go elsewhere, as the weather is fine back home and travel possibilities are numerous. Summer months (July and August) are a sort of intermediate season, as Martinique and Guadeloupe residents often take advantage of the good weather to visit the mainland. Prices and tourist services, as well as airplane tickets tend to be rather pricey, or even extremely expensive at this period, so be sure to book in advance to avoid paying double.

All in all, if you wish to avoid tourist masses but still take advantage of a pleasant temperature, we would advise you to visit the island in May and June, as the climate in this period of the year is rather dry with an acceptable level of humidity, and tariffs are still quite on the low side. July and August are hot and humid months, but don’t be discouraged by tourist clichés saying that the so-called “cyclone” period is a horrible one: it does rain rather often, but the weather is still rather pleasant especially if you are planning to sightsee. Don’t count on taking a cruise ship in September, though, as you have considerably higher chances of meeting up with a hurricane or a tropical thunderstorm in this season.

Terrain [ edit ]

Mountainous with indented coastline and a quiet but still dangerous volcano as well as related volcanic activity.

History [ edit ]

Martinique was discovered on 15 January 1502 by Christopher Columbus. When he landed on the island, he found Martinique to be hostile and heavily infested with snakes and therefore only stayed three days. He baptised the island with the name given to the indigenous people, Matino (the island of women) or Madinina (the island of flowers).

The indigenous occupants were part of two different tribes. The Arawaks were described as gentle timorous Indians and the Caribbeans as ferocious cannibal warriors. The Arawaks came from Central America in the beginning of the Christian era and the Caribbeans came from the Venezuela coast around the 11th century. When Columbus arrived, the Caribbeans had massacred many of their adversaries, sparing the women, whom they kept for their personal or domestic use.

After the discovery by Christopher Columbus, Martinique remained unexplored until 1632, when an expedition led by Pierre Belain d'Estambuc landed on the island at the same time that Lienard de l'Olive and du Plessis took possession of Guadeloupe. The French settled in the north west of the island at the mouth of Roxelane and built fortifications, which later became known as Saint-Pierre. D'Estambucs nephew, du Parquet, acquired Martinique and became its first governor. He made agreement with the Caribbeans and their chief and set about developing the island. Rapidly however, the Caribbeans' territory was threatened and revolt burst out. The courageous Caribbeans were no match for the power of the muskets and they were apparently pushed back to the cliffs and threw themselves in the sea.

Some 240 years later, some say as a resulting curse, Montagne Pelée erupted causing the total devastation of Saint-Pierre. Everybody who lived in the city lost their lives, with the exception of one person held in the city's jail.

Like the other West Indian islands, Martinique experienced a large economic boom due to its tobacco, indigo, cotton production and sugar cane. The lack of labour instigated the black slave trade from Africa between 1686 and 1720. Martinique's wealth resulted in rivalry between the other European nations who shared the West Indies. In 1674 the Dutch landed on Martinique, defended by just a handful of soldiers. They attacked a storage shelter and discovered barrels of rum. Completely drunk the Dutch were thrown into the sea by defenders of Fort Royal, which later became Fort-de-France after the revolution.

The revolution in 1789 never arrived in Martinique. During the revolution they decided to hand over sovereignty to the British to avoid being attacked by the revolutionists who had already attacked Guadeloupe. The British also occupied the island in 1804 and then withdrew in 1814.

During this time a beautiful Creole girl from Martinique, Marie Josèphe Rose married Napoleon Bonaparte in 1796 and became Empress Josephine in 1804. Slavery, which was abolished after the revolution, was re-introduced by Napoleon in 1802, apparently under recommendation of Joséphine. However, the temporary abolishment of slavery had only minor effect on French colonies that weren't Haiti (where an army of former slaves told Napoleon and his army in no uncertain terms what they thought of re-enslavement) as the local white elites simply ignored the decrees from the metropole.

The British abolished slavery in 1833. This measure encouraged the creation of pro-abolition movements in France where slavery was finally abolished in 1848.

Tourist information [ edit ]

• Martinique Tourism website

Cities [ edit ]

• 14.6 -61.066667 1 Fort-de-France : Capital.
• 14.712222 -61.183056 2 Le Carbet :
• 14.48 -61.025556 3 Le Diamant : Beach town facing the iconic Diamond Rock.
• 14.435278 -60.881389 6 Sainte-Anne : Perhaps the most touristy town as it is the access point to all the white sand beaches of the south, including the most famous but crowded Les salines .
• 14.743056 -61.175278 7 Saint-Pierre : Former capital that was destroyed by the 1902 eruption, many historic remains.
• 14.538056 -61.034444 8 Trois-Ilets : Across the bay from Fort de France and reachable by ferry. Tourist town with big resorts, restaurants and casino.

Other destinations [ edit ]

• Macouba , a former tobacco town, is a great look-out place with a great view of seas and mountains. On a clear day, you can see the neighbouring island, Dominica .
• Balata , a serene little town with a church built to remember those who died in World War I and the Jardin de Balata a garden with thousands of tropical plants.
• Presqu'île de la Caravelle , easy 30-min walk up to the lighthouse where you get a view of the whole island.
• La Trinité(Martinique) , fishing village where you'll find the most consistent surfing.

Get in [ edit ]

Being an integrated part of the French Republic , Martininque is considered as European as Paris politically, therefore European Union immigration rules apply. In short, EU citizens and citizens of many other industrialised nations can visit Martinique visa-free, others need a Schengen Visa . For more details, see the European Union article as well as Travelling around the Schengen Area .

By plane [ edit ]

• From Paris (Orly): Air Caraïbes , Air France , Corsair International , LEVEL from €450 round trip
• From Caribbean: Air Antilles Express and Air Caraïbes ~€150 round trip.
• From Belgium ( Charleroi ): Air Belgium
• From USA ( Miami ), American Airlines /(American Eagle)
• From Canada ( Montreal -Trudeau and Toronto -Pearson): Air Canada and Air Transat
• From South America ( Cayenne ), ( French Guiana ): Air France . Codeshares with Air Antilles.

By boat [ edit ]

From the surrounding islands, you can use this ferry company:

• Express des Iles

Cruise ships often visit "in season". Modest-sized ships can dock near downtown, and others moor in the Fort de France harbor, with passengers tendered to docks also close to downtown.

Get around [ edit ]

Public transport in Martinique is very limited, which could explain the reason why there are more cars registered in Martinique per person than anywhere else in France. Public transportation from the airport is via the TCSP Rapid Bus Transit system. Cost is €1.45 for a ticket, which can be purchased at the TCSP stop just outside of the terminal on the other side of the parking lot via a vending machine.

By car [ edit ]

Despite the traffic, if you are going to make the most of your stay in Martinique, it is recommended that you hire a car . Without a car you will miss some of Martinique's best landscapes and scenery. Driving in Martinique will be a pleasure in comparison to other Caribbean islands. The majority of roads are of an excellent standard.

Your driving licence from your home country is valid in Martinique. Driving laws are the same as in France and you have to drive on the right hand side of the road. There are several speed cameras on the island and the Gendarmerie are carrying out an increasing number of speed checks, so you should always watch your speed. Unless otherwise stated, the speed limit is generally 50 km/h in towns, 90 km/h on major roads and 110 km/h on the autoroute between the airport and Fort-de-France.

When travelling to the airport during rush hours, allow plenty of time. The N5 and Lamentin can get very busy. It is particularly busy between 06:30 and 09:30 and between 15:30 and 18:30.

By taxi [ edit ]

Taxis in Martinique are not cheap. The taxi fare from the airport to Fort-de-France is around €20, €38 to Pointe du Bout and Le Francois and €55 to Sainte-Anne. Taxis apply a 40% surcharge between 20:00 and 06:00 as well as on Sundays and public holidays. To call a taxi 24 hr dial 0596 63 10 10 or 0596 63 63 62.

By bus [ edit ]

There are very few buses in Martinique. Most bus services are mini buses marked "TC", which stands for "Taxi Collectifs". The destinations of the buses are marked on a board either on the front window or on the side door. Bus stops (arret autobus) are normally a square blue sign with a picture of a bus in white. Most Taxi Collectifs depart and arrive at the Taxi Collectif Terminal at Pointe Sinon in Fort-de-France. They cost approximately €5 to Saint-Pierre, Pointe du Bout and Diamant, €7 to Sainte-Anne and €9 to Grand-Rivière. There are no timetables and the service can be unreliable. Most services are finished by 18:00 weekdays and 13:00 on Saturday. There are no services on Sundays.

There are shuttle boats every 30 min from Pointe du Bout and Trois Ilet to Fort-de-France. It is a very pleasant way of getting to Fort-de-France and also avoids the traffic. Services finish between 17:45 and 20:00 depending upon the day.

• Windward Islands - Windward Islands, one of the worlds largest yacht charter companies, can take care of all charter requirements, from bareboat to crewed in Martinique, Guadeloupe and St Martin. Operating from 8 international offices (USA, UK, Germany, France, Spain, Switzerland, Caribbean, Monaco).

By thumb [ edit ]

Hitchhiking is very common in Martinique, although like anywhere in the world not recommended. If you are going to hitchhike, take lots of water and try to stay out of the sun. There are very few footpaths in Martinique, so be careful and take the usual precautions that you have to take when hitchhiking anywhere. If you are unsure about getting into a car, just keep walking or wait for another car.

Talk [ edit ]

French and Creole patois are spoken on the islands; English is known by some inhabitants.

They speak very fast, so tell them that you do not know French well.

See [ edit ]

• Jardins de Balata . ( updated Dec 2017 )

Do [ edit ]

• 14.820367 -61.129357 1 Gorges de la Falaise , near Ajoupa-Bouillon . 08:00-17:00 . On a length of about 200 metres the river Falaise flows through a canyon (some ten metres deep and 1-3 metres wide). You can discover the canyon by a combination of walking and swimming. The canyon is on private property, hence the fee (it also pays for the guide). Be aware that some parts of the route can only be crossed by swimming, so you should wear swimming gear (no jeans, shirts, not even hats). However, you need to wear hiking shoes (no flip-flops, etc.) as the hike goes over slippery stones. You can rent appropriate shoes at the entrance. Note that the guide might be able to carry small cameras, but don't bring mobile phones, huge cameras or other stuff. You can leave your clothes, wandering gear, electronics etc. at the hut where the guide is waiting. €7 .  
• Anse Noire , Chemin rural de l'anse du Four . Beautiful beach on the way to Answe d'Arlet. Be careful if you swim there during or after the rain shower. The palletuvier trees are all around and will sip in the water ending up stinging you. Black sand. Free .  

Buy [ edit ]

Money [ edit ].

Like the rest of France, the official currency is the euro (" € ", ISO currency code: EUR ). It is divided into 100 cents.

US dollars are not accepted in shops, but some stores and many restaurants and hotels take credit cards. The best exchange rates can be done in banks. Not all banks will do foreign exchanges and may direct you to Fort-de-France to do such transactions.

Shopping [ edit ]

The best offerings include French luxury imports (e.g., perfumes, fashions, wines) and items made on the island, e.g., spices and rum. And some merchants offer 20 percent tax refunds for purchases made by credit card or travelers checks, though many may not accept the latter.

Shopping opportunities include:

• Galleria, in Lamentin (near airport), is the island's largest mall, with several European branded stores and others.
• Fort-de-France's Spice Market offers stalls full of local/unique flowers, fresh fruit and vegetables, and herbs and spices.
• Rue Victor Hugo: Fort-de-France's main shopping street - a strip of sometimes tiny, Paris-like boutiques, island shops and vendors of fresh fruit and flowers

As a decidedly Catholic island, very few stores are open on Sundays or holidays celebrated in France.

Business hours : Sundays may find many stores closed. Check in-advance before hiring transport to any particular store or shopping area.

Eat [ edit ]

Martinique is unique in contrast to the majority of the other Caribbean islands in that it has a wide variety of dining options. Restaurants in Martinique range from the exclusive, high-end gourmet restaurants to the crêpes, accras, boudin, fruit juices, and coconut milk you can purchase from food merchants on the beach or at snack stands or restaurants in town.

The abundance of Créole and French restaurants reflects the predominance of French tourists in Martinique and the island’s status as a French DOM. There has been a growing interest in the traditional dishes of the island, and therefore, a profusion of the number of Créole restaurants. Many of the restaurants tailor their menus to cater to both Créole and French tastes.

Restaurants in Martinique offer French and other International cuisines, and the possibility of consuming the foods that the Martiniquans eat. Visitors can catch a glimpse of the behind-the-scenes reality of Martiniquan culinary practices through an ‘authentic’ Créole cuisine.

Restaurants, Créole cookbooks, public fairs and festivities, and the expensive dining rooms of foreign-owned luxury hotels where food is served, all present themselves as crucial staging grounds where ideas about Martiniquan cuisine, and therefore, identity, authenticity and place are continuously tested.

Drink [ edit ]

As in mainland France, water is safe to drink from the tap, and restaurants will happily serve this at no extra charge (l'eau du robinet).

Fresh fruit juices are also very popular on the island along with jus de canne which is a delicious sugar cane drink which is often sold in vans in lay-bys off the main roads. This juice does not stay fresh for long, so ask for it to be made fresh while you wait and drink it as quickly as possible with some ice cubes and a squeeze of lime. Try their sugar cane juice, it is quite refreshing. Don't hesitate stopping on the side of the road to buy a drink off the locals who will make it in front of you.

Martinique is famous for its world class rums and the island today still hosts a large number of distilleries inviting tourist to explore its history. Production methods emphasize use of fresh juice from sugar cane to produce "rhum agricole", rather than molasses widely used elsewhere.

Although rum is far more popular, the local beer in Martinique is Bière Lorraine.

• Karaoke-Café , quartier Basse Gondeau 97232 Le Lamentin, 0596 50 07 71, bar/restaurant/nightclub, is the trendiest place (but not the most typical). Live music, Karaoke, 80s, dance, techno, worldmusic. Entrance €20 with a drink.

Sleep [ edit ]

Camping is available in both mountain and beach settings. Setting up just anywhere is not permitted. For details call Office National des Forets , Fort-de-France, (33) 596 71 34 50. A small fee is charged.

In addition there are hotels, bed and breakfasts (French: gites ), villas and even private islands, Ilet Oscar and Ilet Thierry , for rent.

• Le Paradis de l'Anse ( Paradise Cove Resort ), Anse Figuier 97211 Riviere Pilote , ☏ +1 403 561-8223 (in Canada) . Charming 18-unit resort with swimming pool, restaurant and air-conditioned units with ocean view. Detached cabins available. Family-owned and friendly. Also offers all-inclusive vacations, with car rental and tour guide services (to desert beaches and other activities). From €36 . ( updated Sep 2021 )
• PV-Holidays Saint Luce Holiday Village . This holiday village in Martinique offers self catering, air-conditioned accommodation ranging from 2-person studios up to 2-bedroom apartments for 6 persons. The holiday village enjoys a picturesque location on the south coast of the French Caribbean island, surrounded by tropical gardens with direct access to a beautiful white sandy beach.  
• Cap Est Lagoon Resort & Spa , ☏ +596 (596) 54 80 80 , [email protected] . Looking out toward the sea, colourful villas conceal dreamlike suites, with their small private pools, their views of the big blue ocean, and, of particular note, their outdoor showers. Exotic woods and abaca fabrics adorn the rooms in a fusion of Creole and Asian influences - La Prairie, 97240 Le François (Martinique).  
• Centre International de Sejour Martinique , Rue Ernest Hemingway . Officially the only hostel in Martinique, 144 beds in 66 rooms. From €38 .  

The cheapest rooms you will find in Martinique cost around €25 per night, they are often offered by families who want to make some extra money, you will need to search carefully online or ask for taxi drivers.

Learn [ edit ]

• Universite des Antilles

Work [ edit ]

For European people coming from an EU country, working in Martinique isn't a problem. If you're from outside the EU, you will probably need a work permit - check with the French Embassy in your country. Do not forget though that the unemployment rate is high. But if you work in the health sector (doctor, nurse), it will be much easier.

Voluntary service: Volontariat Civil à l'Aide Technique (VCAT). Only for EU/EEA-citizens. You must be over 18 and under 28 years old (inclusive). You must not have had your civic rights revoked by a court or have been convicted of certain offences.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Bring lots of sunscreen!

There are Metropole-style pharmacies which carry top of the line French sunscreen, that can be expensive.

Also, keep hydrated, especially when hiking in the mountainous areas. A hat is often a good thing to have because the sun can get extremely hot.

Watch out not to get caught in Paris Airport buying expensive overpriced sun cream when you can buy the same one locally at reduced cost

Stay healthy [ edit ]

See the above mentioned section. Heat prostration and sunburns can be a real threat to those not used to the climate.

Mosquito repellent is a good thing to have if you are sensitive to bites. There is no malaria on this island but other mosquito borne diseases such as Dengue Fever are present.

Watch out for the palétuviers or mancenilliers (manchineel trees). They are among the most poisonous plants in the world. Their sap is corrosive like acid! In Martinique and Guadeloupe , the manchineel trees have a red stripe painted on the trunk to warn tourists of danger. If it rains make sure you don't go shelter under one of them as you will regret for the rest of your life!

Respect [ edit ]

Polite manners will go very far in this jewel of the Caribbean. When entering a business establishment, always say, 'Bonjour' and 'Merci, au revoir' when departing. Also note that things often run a lot slower in warm climates, so patience is a must. Also, don't expect kowtowing, smiling 'natives'. The Martiniquais are a very proud, dignified people and are often wary of impatient tourists without manners.

Unaccompanied women in tourist and beach areas are likely to experience frequent cat-calling and similar attention from men. A popularly stated reason for this is that there are a greater number of women than men on the island. The best way to deal with unwanted attention is to ignore the attention or firmly state a lack of interest.

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Find cheap flights to Martinique from $191

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Good to know

Faqs - booking martinique flights, are there direct flights from the central parts of the united states to martinique.

All flights from the central parts of America have at least a single stop on the way to Martinique. If you are departing from Dallas Love Field (DAL), the easiest route that will take you the least possible time is to fly to Newark, where you will board a flight with a single layover to Martinique’s Fort-de-France.

Besides FDF, which are the other destination airports for travelers from the United States’ East Coast to Martinique?

Martinique Aimé Césaire International Airport (FDF) is the main destination airport for most East Coast American travelers. Travelers departing from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) can, however, consider other neighboring airports as destinations, with a single layover, such as Hewanorra International Airport (UVF) in St. Lucia and Grantley Adams International Airport (BGI) in Barbados. UVF is approximately 26 km from Martinique’s south coast.

Do I need a visa to fly from the United States to Martinique?

U.S. citizens traveling to Martinique for business, tourism, or any other purpose will not need visas as long as their stays do not exceed three months. You should, however, equip yourself with a three-months-valid passport with a return ticket indicating when you be leaving Martinique.

Which airlines offer direct flights from Miami to Martinique?

Most travelers from Miami to Martinique’s Fort-de-France use Miami International Airport (MIA) as their preferred departure airport and FDF as their destination airport. To travel nonstop from MIA to FDF, consider using either American Airlines, Air France, or Air Antilles.

What are the traveling guidelines for pregnant women traveling from Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT) to Martinique?

As a pregnant woman planning to travel to Martinique from North Carolina-based Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT), you should note that most of the airlines operating on this route, key among them being American Airlines, will allow you to travel with limited restrictions if your pregnancy is under seven months. Pregnant women in their eighth month will be required to come with their safe-to-travel letters from a recognized health care institution or physician.

Apart from Fort-de-France, which other cities are served by FDF?

FDF is the main airport serving Martinique’s capital, Fort-de-France. Other than Fort-de-France, travelers flying from various parts of the United States to nearby cities such as Port of Spain in Trinidad and Tobago and Cumana, Venezuela, can also use FDF as their destination airport and then connect via the numerous land transport options in Martinique, such as taxis and buses. Port of Spain is about 440 km from FDF, while Cumana is about 571 km from FDF.

How long is the flight to Martinique?

An average nonstop flight from the United States to Martinique takes 21h 27m, covering a distance of 2617 miles. The most popular route is Miami - Fort-de-France with an average flight time of 3h 34m.

What is the cheapest flight to Martinique?

The cheapest ticket to Martinique from the United States found in the last 72 hours was $324 one-way, and $449 round-trip. The most popular route is from Miami to Fort-de-France and the cheapest round-trip airline ticket found on this route in the last 72 hours was $574.

Which airlines fly to Martinique?

American Airlines flies the most frequently from the United States to Martinique.

How does KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a given destination and date is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

Top tips for finding cheap flights to Martinique

• Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest Martinique flight deals.
• If you are planning to fly to Martinique to witness Le Tour de Martinique, an annual cycling race held in July, please remember that you will likely incur higher rates for your airfares. The flight fees for most airlines would often proportionately rise with the demand realized during this period.
• If you rent a car in Martinique for your family trips, please remember that, based on Martinique rules, children under the age of 12 should not travel in the front car seat. Children under the age of 6 must be secured with dedicated child safety seats. For convenience, you should inform your car rental agency prior to your arrival at Martinique Aimé Césaire International Airport (FDF) that you will need a child safety seat.
• If you are traveling from the United States to Martinique on a limited-time schedule, consider the flight hacking option. With this option, you will save time by booking two tickets, each with a different airline, which will help you to save time and money resources by avoiding a layover. For instance, you can book your first flight with American Airlines from Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) to San Juan (SJU), and then book another ticket for your flight from SJU to FDF with Iberia Airlines.
• Most travelers from the United States visit the French islands of Guadeloupe to experience and learn about the history of Martinique from the historic, 17th-century Fort Napoléon Museum and exotic garden. To access Fort Napoléon from MIA, consider landing at Douglas-Charles Airport (DOM). DOM is about 48 kilometers from Fort Napoléon.
• For those travelers whose final destination in Martinique is Saint-Pierre, consider flying into Beziers Airport (BZR). From BZR, you will connect to Saint-Pierre, located about 20.4 km away, which takes about 55 minutes via taxi or about two hours and 48 minutes by taking the line 660 or line 8 bus.
• If you are departing from the central United States to Martinique, your ideal departure airport is the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW). At DFW, you will access a number of airlines offering one-stop flights to Martinique. Among these are American Airlines and Iberia Airlines.
• If you are departing from the East Coast of the U.S. to Martinique, your likely departure airport is John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York. When departing from JFK, consider utilizing one-stop flights aboard American Airlines.

Top 4 airlines flying to Martinique

Did not find the wheelchair that supposed to assist and went to a long queue for transit security chk which was very slow and boarding desk wanted to close counter although that they knew that I am minutes away because of their mistake of not providing the wheelchair.

Boarding was smooth and on time. The seat was comfortable and the entertainment worked. Staff were gracious.

Business class in the second leg - CDG-EVN was a disaster.

worst experience ever i choose my seat in advance and also have my seat selected in my boarding and the they told me that my seat has been changed without notify me

No bording was given for next trip on same carrier, food was very moderate.

No birding was given for next trip on same carrier, food was very moderate.

We transited through Chad and what was supposed to be a 1hr 20 minutes transit time lasted over 4hrs. We didn't get regular updates until we complained. After a 10hr flight from Paris no form of refreshment given and finally arrived Abuja over 6hrs later and none of my bags came

The line at boarding was not well organized and managed

A couple of minor delays in boarding but very professional and efficient staff.

their gluten free lactose meal is the best, I have never been satisfied with my flight meals. I definitely enjoyed my flight and the chair is very spacious for economy. I'm so glad Delta is my flight way back to NY.

The flight got canceled due to mechanical issues, and he to be rebooked and missed my appointments for that day

Terrible, oxygen masks were deployed mid-flight. We returned to airport. Took additional 12 hours to get home.

6 plus hour delay with no explanation. No wheelchairs to transport us on arrival. Very disappointed.

Nice aircraft. Plane was PACKED full and distance between seats was tight. Had it been more than a two hour flight it would not have been tolerable. I had much more knee space on the JetBlue flight I went out on.

Flight delayed 3 times. We were directed to go to a gate across from our gate. The plane wasn't there yet so we had to wait for it to arrive, then deplane everyone and then wait again for the plane to be cleaned. After 45 minuites we were allowed on the plane. The first plane had mechanical issues. The 2nd plane must have had bathroom issues because we did not have any food service whatsoever. No snack or beverage. That made for a long time not to have anything considering that we had just made it to the original gate and we had no time to stop to get food or a drink. Then we didn't want to leave the gate to get food because we wouldn't know how much longer the delay would be. Then the next gate change. Had we been told that the total time would have been aprox 45 min later we would have left to get food and a beverage. We had to wait again for the okay to the pilot to take off so we were on the runway for another 20 min. Overall, we were delayed over 2 hours which felt like 4 hours.

Everything went well. Got a snack and a beverage.. Able to watch live tv and movies in flight

The flight was scheduled to depart DCA at 12:30 pm but was delayed twice on the ground so that we were finally scheduled to depart at around 4:00 pm. Once we boarded, it was announced that takeoff would be delayed again to fix a hydraulic problem which delayed our eventual takeoff until around 5:00 pm. Once we departed, it was a smooth flight back to ORD. We did not get any explanation about what caused the original significant delay. In my experience, this happens frequently with AA.

Plane was good but was delayed. probably not AA fault but caused a 1 hour delay. Seating was cramped.

Flight was good and arrived a little early. Very good.

Gossipy flight attendants talked the whole flight about bar hopping and dating.

I liked Seattle but nothing air Canada did there was any good at all neither was kayak as when I purchased my flights the price I purchased at was not what kayak charged to my card and there has been no responses to my emails ....

I didn't understand what "limited wifi" mean. Everything is money money money. I didn't have any other choice other than Air Canada since I couldn't find any other direct flight.

Nice small trip, No food included in ticket, but beverages were for free.

There is no food or entertainment on these short flights. Again the wheelchair situation in Denver is nasty. They are short staffed due to cut backs and layoffs and this impacts on travel comfort and ease.

My flying experience with Air Canada was good but the wheelchair situation wasn't good at all and if would be good to make sure that they have the appropriate services available for your traveling passengers.

There was no food or entertainment on this flight. Great flight crew though

All of our flights got delayed. Fll-Montreal delayed due to technical issues. We got transferred to a Fll-Toronto flight, in Toronto flight got delayed 5 hours causing us to miss our connection to Amman. We are now arriving to Amman 24hours later

Flew in Business Class. The new AC lounge at SFO is one of the best I’ve been to with a spacious design and an open air deck. Flight itself was on-time and as expected overall.

In flight wifi that I paid for was very slow and at times didn't work at all.

It has space for legs. Comfortable seats Punctual Some snacks should be served

It was cancelled. And Kayak/Kiwi pocketed the money. Competence, ethics and customer service would be an idea.

There was nothing to like about this airline and everything needs improvement

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One Week In Martinique: 6-7-8 Day Itinerary

What to do for 1 week in Martinique?

In order to make the most of your  6, 7 or 8 day tour  in Martinique , I have prepared an itinerary for you to get a good overview of the must- see places of interest  on this small French island in the Caribbean.

This program is the perfect mix between discovery of  the capital Fort-de-France , a swimming break on the splendid  beaches of Anses d’Arlet , a road trip on the mythical  Route de la Trace  and a hike in  the Savane des Pétrifications .

Here is a very complete list for a  stay of 6, 7 or 8 days in Martinique!

And, as usual, also find  my selection of the best accommodations to sleep in Martinique , depending on your budget.

So,  what to do and see during 1 week trip to Martinique?

Table of Contents

Day 1: Fort-de-France

Martinique’s only airport,  Martinique Aimé Césaire International Airport , is located in Le Lamentin, a commune on the  outskirts of Fort-de-France , the island’s capital. I therefore advise you to  start your one-week itinerary  in Martinique by  visiting Fort-de-France.

First of all, I recommend that you  rent a car . Visiting Martinique by car is clearly  the most practical if you want to be independent . And yes, even if the island is small, the “Mozaïk” public transport network is not the most efficient.

When I go on a road trip, whether in  Canada ,  Andalusia  or elsewhere, I  always book in advance  to be sure to have a car that meets my needs and my budget.

Once you arrive in Fort-de-France (10 minutes by car from the airport), you can start this first day of your week-long tour of Martinique by  visiting the city. 

After dropping off your luggage and freshening up, I advise you to go  for a walk to the two markets  in the city:

• First  the Fish Market  (if your accommodation allows you to cook, you can even buy your lunch there)
• Then  the Grand Marché or spice  market, a covered market set up in a large hall where you will find everything (spices of course, but also souvenirs for example).

Continue the day with   a visit to Fort Saint-Louis , a military fort  listed as a Historic Monument . Recently reopened to the public after more than 10 years of closure, it offers a brand  new tourist route.  The Fort allows you to admire a  pretty view of the city and the bay .

It is open Tuesday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and the visit costs €8.  Remember to book your visit at the tourist office,  because the military site requires, the visit is only guided.

At the end of the day,  stroll through the streets  and soak up the sweetness of Martinican life. During your walk, stop by to see  the former Palais de Justice, the Saint-Louis Cathedral  and enjoy some greenery in  the central park of Fort-de-France. 

Spend the night in Fort de France. Tips: During your 1-week trip in Martinique , pay attention to speed cameras , there are a lot of them!

Accommodation in Fort-de-France

• Center International de Séjour Youth hostel  :  Located 10 minutes from Fort-de-France. Room with twin beds from €75, breakfast included. Most: free private parking, hearty breakfast.
• Residence Fort Savane:  Located next to the park. Modern and well-equipped double room from €130. The pluses: the welcome, the cleanliness, the location if you want to stay in the city center.
• Karibea La Valmenière Hotel:   Located in the business district. Spacious and well-equipped double room from €135 per night, breakfast included. Most: the swimming pool on the roof, the very pleasant staff, the location.
• Apolline:  Guest house located on the heights of Fort-de-France and offering tastefully decorated rooms and suites, from €150, breakfast included. Most: the magnificent setting, the swimming pool, the breathtaking view
• HOTEL PELICAN:  Located 4 km from the center of Fort-de-France, in one of the best areas of the city. Super spacious and bright double room with balcony and for some sea view, from 150€, breakfast at 18€. Most: the swimming pool, the sea view, the quality of the welcome, the location.  It is our favorite for its price/performance ratio in Martinique!
• Simon Hotel:   Located 6 minutes walk from the beach and 500 meters from the covered market. Modern and warm double room, tastefully decorated, from €190, breakfast €15. Most: the decoration of the rooms, the geographical location, the welcome at the top.  This is our recommendation for a romantic stay in Martinique.

Day 2: Les Trois-Ilets

On the morning of your second day of this 1-week stay in Martinique, leave your car in the parking lot and  reach Trois-Îlets by boat , the most touristic seaside resort on the island.

The  Vedettes Tropicales  connect  Fort-de-France  and  Trois-Îlets  every day from 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., and the round trip costs €7.

In Trois-Îlets, start by  visiting the town . I advise you first to go see the  Savannah of the slaves , to discover the slavery past of the island.

The Slave Savannah is an  eco  -museum in a beautiful 3 hectare garden, where a  village has been reconstructed comprising around 15 traditional huts . The  way of life of slaves on the plantations  is well explained.

It is open from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. from Monday to Saturday, and from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Sunday. The  visit is obligatorily guided , and it costs 12 €.

It is now surely time for lunch! Then head to one of the many  seaside restaurants  and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the seaside resort.

On the program for the afternoon, it will be  idleness, snorkeling,   or even  nautical activities . I recommend for example:

• A jet ski ride   to discover the most beautiful places in Martinique from the sea – Several durations to choose from: from 45 minutes to a full day.
• An introduction to driving a jet ski
• A kitesurf lesson   with a state-certified instructor
• A windsurfing lesson
• A snorkeling excursion   to explore the seabed and observe fish and corals.

At the end of the day, I recommend that you go  for a walk to Anse Mitan , near Pointe du Bout. The place is always very lively.

It is then time to  return to Fort-de-France by boat.

Tips: Les Trois-Îlets is also known for being the  birthplace of Joséphine de Beauharnais , the first wife of  Napoleon  I. You can visit the place where she was born,  the Domaine de la Pagerie .

Day 3: La Route de la Trace / Saint Pierre

Today it’s off for the  day in road trip mode  for this 7-8 day itinerary in Martinique. I suggest you drive along  one of the most beautiful roads on the island: the Route de la Trace.

The Route de la Trace  is the local nickname for the RN3, which  connects Fort-de-France to Morne-Rouge . Over 29 km, it  crosses the tropical forest  and is lined with  many small waterfalls  and  viewpoints,  each more beautiful than the next.

Depart early in the morning  and take time to stop along the way.  The Basilica of the Sacred Heart , in particular, is not to be missed, with its breathtaking view of Fort-de-France.

The other obligatory stop on the Route de la Trace is the  Jardin de Balata . This artist’s botanical garden  will allow you to discover the local fauna and flora . And if you arrive early, you might even  see hummingbirds!  Plan around 1h30 for the visit.

The Jardin de Balata is open every day from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and the adult price is €14.

Continue on Route de la Trace to  Le Bambou  restaurant , where you can  discover Creole specialties  (I recommend the cod fritters with coconut milk, a real delight). After lunch,  take the car back to Morne-Rouge  to cross the village.

Then go down again towards the south,  in the direction of Saint-Pierre . The city is  the former capital of Martinique , which was completely  destroyed by the eruption of Mount Pelée  in 1902. You can see the ruins of an old theater and the  dungeon of Cyparis , the only survivor of the disaster. .

Saint-Pierre is impressive for its atmosphere and  its black sand beaches.  On the way back, stop at one of the  high viewpoints on the road  from where you can  admire the sunset over the sea.

After this day rich in discovery, return  to spend the night in your hotel in Fort-de-France. 

Day 4: Les Anses d’Arlet / Le Diamant

For the 4th day of your week -long trip to Martinique ,  head to the southwest of the island.

I suggest you start the day by  the Anses d’Arlet . It will take you about 40 minutes by road bypassing the Bay of Fort-de-France to reach  the village of Anses d’Arlet , an authentic village that has a lot of charm.

The beaches of Anses d’Arlet,  Grande-Anse and Petite-Anse , are among  the most famous on the island . You can stop there or choose to continue a little further,  towards Anse Noire  (so called because of the color of its sand). This is for me the  best beach for  snorkeling. The place is known to offer the possibility of  seeing sea turtles. 

After an invigorating swim,  head to Le Diamant . Along the way, if you are a little hungry, you will find  many street vendors . Don’t hesitate to stop by to  buy their boucané chicken , a  typical Caribbean  dish that dates back to the time of the Amerindians.

At Le Diamant, start by  going to see the AnseCaffard memorial , the  “   Cap 110″. Built on the occasion of the  150th anniversary of the abolition of slavery , this memorial represents 15 busts arranged in a triangle facing the sea, symbols of the victims of slavery in Martinique.

The place is full of significance for the people of Martinique since in 1830, an illegal boat full of slaves ran aground there, causing the death of hundreds of them.

For a happier end of the afternoon,  admire the sunset over Diamond Rock from  Grande Anse du Diamant.

It will then take you a  30-minute drive to reach your hotel in Fort-de-France.

Day 5: The Caravelle Peninsula

For the 5th day of your 1-week circuit in Martinique, I will take you to  explore the east of the island  and  in particular the Caravelle peninsula.

It is one of the nicest places in Martinique. It will take you  about 40 minutes by car  to reach the peninsula from Fort-de-France. Take the A1 to Lamentin, then the N1 to La Trinité.

Start your day early, before it  gets too hot, with the hike around the peninsula  from La Trinité. This is one of the must-do hikes during your holidays in Martinique.

There are several trails but I suggest you  opt for the full tour  : plan about half a day, and above all a lot of water.

The path takes you through the most beautiful landscapes of the island:  mangrove, tropical forest, prairie, viewpoints over the sea  … You can also see the ruins of a castle, the  Dubuc castle.

Day 6-7: The South of the island

For this  last stage   of your week-long stay in Martinique, I advise you  to go south . You will be able to enjoy  the most famous beaches of the island. 

On the 6th  day ,  first reach Sainte-Luce  from Fort-de-France (about 30 minutes drive). Sainte-Luce is located right next to Le Diamant.

Take advantage of the calm of the morning to go see   Anse Figuier , one of the most famous beaches on the island.

Then go  visit the  Trois-Rivières distillery ,  to taste one of Martinique’s most famous rums. The distillery is open for visits every day from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. in high season, and Monday to Saturday in low season. The visit costs 3 €.

At the end of the morning, direction Sainte-Anne. Start by  visiting the town of Sainte-Anne , very charming, and spend  the afternoon on the Salines beach , in the shade of the coconut trees.

In Les Salines, you can go to  Grande Anse beach in  particular : the area is often quite quiet, far from the bustle and tourists.

You can  stay in Sainte-Anne  or in one of the surrounding towns (Sainte-Luce, Le Vauclin, Le François). I give you some accommodation suggestions below.

Here you are on the last day of this recommended one-week itinerary in Martinique.

Start the day with a  morning hike to the Savane des Pétrifications.

This hike is one of the most beautiful on the island: 4 km long (from Anse à Prunes to Anse Trabaud), it takes you through  the undergrowth, marshes and desert plains  of the south coast of the island. The total change of scenery is guaranteed!

You can end up spending the time you have left  at Anse Trabaud,  a pretty beach. Perfect for swimming before your return!

Then return to Fort-de-France  if your plane takes off in the evening or you can  also sleep in Sainte Anne  if you do not take off until the next morning.

Tips: If your stay in Martinique only lasts 6 days , I advise you to  spend only one day in the south of the island  while staying in Fort-de-France. In this case, hike to La Savane in the morning and spend the afternoon at Salines beach, for example.

If you stay 8 days in Martinique , I suggest you devote the  extra day to a boat trip.  Here is my pick of the best:

• A day to meet dolphins.
• Mini snorkeling cruise and dolphin watching
• A racing trimaran excursion
• A sailboat cruise

Accommodation in the south of the island

If you wish, you can  stay in the south of the island for this last stage . Here are my favorites:

(You can of course also stay at your hotel near Fort de France, distances are never very great on the island.)

• Village Pierre & Vacances – Sainte Luce:  Located by the sea, in Sainte-Luce. Very spacious studio with kitchenette equipped with a microwave oven and hotplates and private terrace, from €60, breakfast at €16. The pluses: the large swimming pool, the beach nearby, the exteriors, the activities on offer.  It is our favorite for its performance / price ratio in Martinique.
• Brise Marine:  Located facing the sea, in Sainte-Luce. Bungalow with kitchen and private terrace with sea and garden view from 90€. Most: the personalized welcome, the magnificent setting, the superb view, the location.
• Hotel-Restaurant La Dunette:   Located by the sea, in Sainte-Anne. Colorful and bright double room with sea view from €95, breakfast included. The pluses: the view, the pontoon fitted out for relaxing, the evenings with musical entertainment.
• Hôtel Douce Vague:  Located on the edge of Sainte-Luce beach. Apartment with kitchenette and terrace from €130. Most: access to the beach, cleanliness, calm.
• Eden Paradise Spa Ecolodge:   Located 10 minutes from the beach, in Sainte-Luce. Comfortable and quiet bungalow, some with a jacuzzi, from €230 per night, breakfast included. Most: the swimming pool, the jacuzzi, the silence, the setting, the zen atmosphere.  This is our recommendation for a romantic stay in the South of Martinique.

The  seaside resort of Trois-Ilets  also offers a few options:

• Hotel La Pagerie:  located 5 minutes walk from the beach of Anse-Mitan. Modern and spacious double room with balcony from €160, breakfast at €20. Most: the beautiful garden, the large swimming pool, the good breakfast.
• Hotel Bambou:  located at Anse-Mitant. Room located in small Creole-type bungalows, from €230 with breakfast and dinner included. Most: the swimming pool, the private car park, on the seafront.

A week in Martinique: the map of your itinerary

To help you view your itinerary, I have made a map of all the places you will visit in a week in Martinique. The island’s airport is located in Fort-de-France. You can display the legend by clicking on the button with a small arrow located at the top left of the map.

Are you going to Martinique? Also to read

Discover all our articles on Martinique : all articles on Martinique are listed here.

• Itinerary: A week in Martinique   – Follow our advice for a dream stay!
• Itinerary: 10 days in Martinique   – Tips and steps to prepare your stay!
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Martinique  – All our advice to organize your trip!
• Road trip in Martinique :   The best itineraries for 7, 10 and 15 days on the island

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Useful tips and advice

Useful information for preparing for your trip

What you need to know

There are no compulsory vaccinations for entering Martinique. However, some are recommended if you live in a country at risk (hepatitis and yellow fever).

Health restrictions linked to COVID 19 were lifted on August 2022. No test or vaccination is therefore required to enter Martinique.

Martinique is a French department. European travelers should carry a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to ensure coverage for necessary healthcare treatment while on the island. Some expenses may not be covered and prices depend on the status of the doctor (contracted sector 1, 2 or 3).

The risks of theft or assault are very low in Martinique. Nevertheless, it is worth following some rules of common sense to avoid unpleasant surprises: 

• Never leave belongings on view in vehicles, 
• Avoid withdrawing large sums of money at ATMs,
• At beaches, theft is extremely rare. You can leave your belongings on the sand without fear, as long as your valuables are well out of sight and you keep an eye out from a distance.

The main risks concern the heat and the sun, mosquito bites, poisonous plants and unsupervised swimming in the sea.

Some useful tips to make the most of your stay:

• Protect yourself from the heat and the sun 
• Stay hydrated during the day (drink at least 2 liters of water)
• Wear a hat and sunglasses
• Apply sunscreen regularly
• Do not lie directly on the hot sand – use your towel or sarong
• If you use mosquito repellent, wait at least 45 minutes between applying sunscreen and repellent.  

How to deal with mosquitos?

• Avoid going out without protection at nightfall (when mosquitos are most active)
• Sleep under a mosquito net
• Use repellent products (ask for advice at the pharmacy, especially for children)
• Wear long clothing
• Don’t skimp on insecticide and insect repellent (sprays, mosquito coils, etc.).

In sum, remember to cover your head well and always take water and sunscreen with you.  Always carry mosquito repellent with you to avoid unpleasant bites.  Following this advice will help you avoid minor hassles.

Travel with children

Travelling with children in Martinique is relatively easy. Most accommodation is equipped to welcome children and restaurants often offer a kid’s menu. Dont’ forget to protect little ones from mosquitoes and sunstroke.

Communications

Martinique has all the modern means of communications including Wi-Fi internet, telephone, fax, international and mobile phone network access.

The internet network is good and most hotels and restaurants, and the airport, provide Wi-Fi access.

Phone numbers in Martinique have 10 digits and start with +596 596 for landlines and +596 696 for mobiles.  

Travel with pets

Traveling to Martinique with your dog or cat is very easy.  You will need:  

• Your pet’s passport: This will be issued to you by an vet authorized to issue a pet health certificate from the country of origin, 
• Your pet's electronic chip used for identification. The chip number must also feature on your pet’s passport.
• Regarding health, the first obligation is the rabies vaccine. Once vaccinated, your pet will be able to board the plane.
• Your animal’s health certificate which certifies that your animal is fit to travel.

In Martinique, the currency is the Euro, just like in mainland France.  US dollars are accepted in some establishments as well as traveler’s checks and credit cards. Non-local checks may sometimes be refused. 

In Martinique, the cost of living is higher than in mainland France and you should plan your budget accordingly. In low season (also known locally as ‘hivernage’), the cost of accommodation drops by 20% to 30%. Prices are at their highest over the Christmas break and during Carnival.

Martinique has a tropical climate. The temperature varies relatively little throughout the year and is generally around 28°C. The temperature is similar in the day and at night and night falls quickly and early (even in June, the sun sets at about 6.30 pm). 

• Between June and November, the climate is hot and humid with heavy rainfall late in the day. This is wet season, or ‘hivernage’.
• From December to May, it is dry season or ‘carême’. The climate is drier and slightly hotter.

Martinique is therefore a destination you can visit in all seasons, but the months of December to May are preferable as temperatures are particularly pleasant at this time of year.

There is a five-hour time difference between France and Martinique in winter and six hours in summer. When it is noon in Paris, it is 6 a.m. in Fort de France.

In Martinique, French is the usual language and Creole the regional language.  

• Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Pierre Zobda-Quitmann (main hospital) Maison De La Femme, De La Mere Et De L'enfant (maternity hospital) ✉ : BP 632 - 97261 Fort De France ☎ : + 596 596 55 20 00 State-of-the-art equipment in all specialties. The hospital is equipped with a decompression chamber.  
• Centre Hospitalier General Louis Domergue, at Trinite ☎ : + 596 596 66 46 00  
• Saint-Esprit Hospital ☎ : + 596 596 77 31 11  
• Le Lamentin Hospital ☎ : + 596 596 57 11 11  
• Le Carbet Hospital ☎ : + 596 596 78 02 20  
• Lorrain-Basse-Pointe Hospital
• ☎ : + 596 596 53 27 27

Private clinics

• Clinique Saint Paul ✉ : Fort de France ☎ : + 596 596 39 40 00  
• Clinique Sainte Marie ✉ : Schoelcher ☎ : + 596 596 71 22 22

✉ : 97200 Fort de France ☎ : + 596 596 39 36 00

Central Police

✉ : 3 Rue Victor Sévère 97200 Fort de France ☎ : + 596 596 59 40 00 or + 596 596 71 36 90

Emergencies

• Samu (round-the-clock emergency medical assistance) ☎: + 596 596 75 15 75 or dial 15 .  
• SOS médecins (24/7 general medical assistance) ☎: + 596 596 63 33 33  
• Fire services ☎ : 18  
• Police  ☎: 17  
• Costaguard rescue ☎ :  + 596 596 70 92 92

Other useful travel  advice

• Guidebook All you need to know
• About Martinique
• General information
• How to get there
• Accommodation

Car rentals

• Restaurants and nightlife
• Sport and activities

All you need to know

The only complete and detailed English travel guide to the Caribbean island Martinique!

Looking for a real guidebook? Want to discover hidden secrets and places off the beaten track? Looking to get away from the tourist traps and explore the beauty of Martinique? Need advice and tips from the inhabitants of the island?

Our complete and detailed guidebook gives you an indepth look into the Caribbean paradise, written by people who actually live here. Martinique is an island of never-ending summer that has a fascinating French history, rich culture, delicious cuisine, tasty rum and a breath-taking natural beauty.

We’re so in love with this island, a little slice of heaven, that we want to share it with you.

Come explore it with us!

What’s inside?

Download preview

More than 200 stunning photos

Special Offers  – discounts inside the book for great recommended places

Secret Tips – places you will not find in any other guide

1 Day Trips – try our special day trip routes that will show you the most interesting places around the island

QR code map system “scan and go”  – easily find everything you’re looking for

Top 10 places – top picks to visit during your stay

All you need to know about the island – more than 200 illustrations of fauna and flora, history, traditions, culture, food, sights, useful tips and much, much more<

Hundreds of shops and markets sorted by categories

Smart icons for easy orientation

Colour-coded chapters  for quick reference

More than 70 sights, 50 beaches and 30 hikes  with photos, description and easy navigation

Recommended restaurants, bars and hotels  plus another 200 suggestions to go out

Start planning your trip: buy your book online now!

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Printed version

15,00  €

Or buy in the store or at one of our partners

Fort-de-France – Kazabul, Presence Kreol, Boutique Mathilda (Jardin de Balata)

Lamentin – Cultura (Californie)

Airport – Aeropresse – public hall 1st floor, boarding hall

Trois-Ilets – Savane des Esclaves,  Beach break (Anse Mitan), Coast to coast (Anse à l’Âne)

Sainte-Luce  – La Carambole

Find the best rental prices whether you want to ride in economy, family or luxury cars. You’ll get the best car deals with our partners.

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Ready to book your dream holiday? Discover Saint Lucia, Dominica or Grenadines on the perfect sailing trip that explores the Caribbean. Awesome boats for affordable prices. Book your adventure now.

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• ↠ Western USA
• ↠ Abu Dhabi
• ↠ Philippines
• ↠ Sri Lanka
• ↠ Czech Republic
• ↠ French Islands
• ↠ Switzerland

What to do in Martinique? 10 days itinerary

What to do in Martinique ?

Visit Martinique in 10 days , it is possible! We suggest you to discover our itinerary to know what to do in Martinique during your trip in the Caribbean.

In order to pay off the plane ticket and the travel time, we advise you to plan at least 10 days to visit Martinique . All our tips and practical information (when to go, how to get around, budget) are at the end of the article – those in a hurry can click here .

Plane tickets are often very cheap, which makes Martinique a rather economical destination if you are looking for sun in the middle of winter! To compare flights, we always use Skyscanner because we get the best deals there.

Guadeloupe VS Martinique ?

Many of you have told us that you hesitate between Guadeloupe and Martinique. What are the differences between these two destinations ? We will not hide you that they are rather similar. The ideal is to do both once in your life to make your own idea ! For the beauty of the beaches, we prefer Martinique. There are many more beautiful beaches and lots of ilets ! For the rest, we choose Guadeloupe on the diversity of the landscapes and the cities which are better arranged / nicer to live in according to us.

? Discover our Guadeloupe Travel Guide

Martinique : the dangers

? As in any tropical destination, there are some species considered as dangerous, such as snakes, mygales, and so on. However, we did not see any in 10 days.

☀️ Protect yourself from the sun during your trip to Martinique , it is often our worst ally.

? BEWARE of the mancenilliers : they are very toxic trees, present on the Martinique coast. In contact with water, the sap of this tree becomes like acid and can burn you to the 3rd degree. Do not take shelter under a mancenilla tree during the rains. Do not eat its fruits (they look like green apples). Do not touch the leaves if you are sweating. Any contact between this tree and moisture is DANGEROUS. Generally, they are indicated by a large red line on the trunk (but not always). It was called by the settlers “the tree of death” and is listed in the book of records as the most dangerous tree in the world.

⚠️ It is not recommended to go out at night, late and alone, in Fort-de-France.

Organize your stay in Martinique

We hope that this itinerary has helped you in the organization of your trip. To finish this 10 day guide to Martinique , we give you all the practical information you need to know before you go.

Information to know before your trip to Martinique

When to go to martinique .

Historically, the island has two seasons:

• the dry season , from December to April
• the wet season , from June to November

According to the locals with whom we could exchange, the seasons have shifted since last year. They say that the dry season starts in February and ends in June. We left in December 2018 and experienced some rather heavy rains; but it was mostly sunny during this trip to Martinique. Carnival (in February) is, by all accounts, an unforgettable time! It is the most important festival there, so it is a very festive time in the villages.

How to get around in Martinique?

A car is essential to visit Martinique. You can compare prices and book the best car rental deals on Skyscanner.

10 days in Martinique : Budget

The budget below is according to our mode of travel in Martinique – that is to say an accommodation at Pierre & Vacances with kitchen which allowed us to avoid the meals outside (expensive in Martinique). We did not count the cost of the activities because it is specific to each one.

• Plane : 830€ for 2 ppl
• Accommodation : 1300€
• Car Rental : 300€
• Gasoline : 90€
• Food : 220€

Total = 2 750€, 1 375€ per person for 10 days in Martinique

? Visit Fort-de-France  

For the end of the day, you can visit the capital of Martinique Fort-de-France, its downtown and its market. Drink a cocktail and watch the sunset at the rooftop bar Le Cloud.

Day 10 : end of the itinerary “what to do in Martinique”

 anse grosse roche.

The specificity of this beach is its heart which is carved in the rock. Access from Cap Macré: 40 minutes walk round trip. There are not many people on this beach!

          Voir cette publication sur Instagram                       Une publication partagée par Village Créole Martinique (@villagecreole) le 24 Sept. 2020 à 2 :16 PDT

? Anse Michel

Our favorite beach, bordered by magnificent palm trees! The water is transparent and we have foot on several hundred meters.

We leave you the afternoon quiet, because it will be time to pack your bags and to recover from your emotions ❤️.

Day 9 (inside the Jungle)

Cascades de didier.

The Cascades de Didier are amazing! It’s a must-see in Martinique . To reach it, you will have to park at the level of the station  a little before the end of the road D45. Be careful, there is no signpost so do not take the wrong direction! The path to take is next to the “No Passing” sign, which you should ignore.

There are two waterfalls in Didier . The first one is 20 minutes away from the parking. Halfway there is a scary tunnel, where it is dark, with bats and snakes (thank God we do not see them):  lamp or phone essential! At the end of the tunnel, go up the river on the right. The second waterfall is even more beautiful but more difficult to access: there are passages in the water so equip your shoes accordingly. We could not go there because we had not foreseen the water level up to our knees. Be careful if it rained, it was very slippery.

⏰ About 2h30-3h round trip if you do the two waterfalls.

? The Garden of Balata

The Garden of Balata is represented by more than 3,000 species of plants. For the lovers of botany, it is thus the place dreamed! We confess that we expected better for the price, because the entrance is still 14€ per person. The view on the sea with the royal palms is still splendid. There is also a small tree walk in the style of accrobranche which is nice. The Jardin de Balata is open every day from 9am to 6pm. Between 45 minutes and two hours of visit (if you linger a lot on the plants).

Day 7 (North of the island)

The North of Martinique is known to be more authentic and wilder than its southern part. Many hiking trails are present. The vegetation is luxuriant because the climate is more humid.

? For the courageous and the sportsmen: sunrise at the top of the Pelee Mountain . It is the volcano, still active, in the north of Martinique.  The hike is 4 hours round trip, for 6 km with a positive difference in altitude of 700 m. It is advised to go there very early in the morning, because clouds often cling to the volcano. At the top, it is cold so bring a sweater! See the itinerary here .

?  For dolphin lovers : plan a boat trip to observe them. (On the condition that you do not do the mountain, otherwise it will be too tight in timing)

? In the afternoon, go and relax on the Anse Couleuvre : a beautiful black sand beach, very wild! If you see a palm tree lying on old photos, don’t expect to see it because it has been decapitated. The Couleuvre cove is nevertheless beautiful.

?  Couleuvre waterfall : the highest in Martinique. Keep your eyes open, mygales are often on the way! 1h30-2h round trip, 3 km.

          Voir cette publication sur Instagram                       Une publication partagée par Martin Fichez (@nautimages) le 11 Oct. 2020 à 11 :42 PDT

Day 8 : travel itinerary in Martinique

⛵️ Boat day of your choice: wonder, relaxation and aperitif are on the program!

We have tested two of them: more info on our article Top 5 activities in Martinique.

Catamaran day

Day 6 (South-West)

 hike to morne larcher (commune du diamant).

You will climb on the Morne Larcher, an ancient volcano whose summit is located at 478 meters of altitude. It is the famous relief that the Martiniqueans call the “femme couchée”. When you see it from far, a silhouette of a woman lying down can be distinguished; we frankly had difficulty to notice it.

The departure is made from the Anse Caffard – Rather rough hike: it climbs dry but the sight at the top is superb! To avoid by day of rain because that slips. To be done in the morning so as not to be too hot!

⏰ 4 km – 400 m of difference in altitude – 2 hours approximately.

          Voir cette publication sur Instagram                       Une publication partagée par ????? ???? (@wooooo.972) le 16 Déc. 2018 à 10 :25 PST

Visit of the Cap 110 Memorial 

The Cap 110 Memorial is also called Caffard Cove Memorial. It was created in honor of the victims of a terrible accident. A ship carrying Guinean slaves was wrecked. The whole story is indicated on the panels of the memorial, we invite you to read them.

?Sunset at Grande Anse du Diamant

The Grande Anse du Diamant is the perfect spot to watch the sunset! Park your car at the parking lot n°6. Nearby you will find the magnificent palm trees. ?

(c) Photographer – Marie Brion

• Go and admire the surfers’ beach: Anse Bonneville in Tartane. The ideal place to practice or learn surfing in Martinique

? On your way back to the South, visit and taste the rum of the distillery of the Habitation Clément  (in moderation for the drivers)!

Day 4 (South)

? Anse Dufour to swim with the turtles . Go in the morning so you do not have to swim with 25 people! You will have the turtles to yourself. Very important, swim with them yes but with respect. Do not try to touch them. Let them breathe if they want to. YOU are entering their natural habitat, so they must be allowed to live quietly. We went twice and saw turtles both times. It is an absolutely beautiful moment.

?  Anse Noire is located a few minutes walk from Anse Dufour. It is the only black sand beach in the south of Martinique . It seems that turtles come to lay their eggs on this beach, that is why they are numerous on this sector! So, you may have the chance to see them near this beach too. Between Anse Noire and Anse Dufour is located “ the Y point “. It is a spot to jump with crystal clear water! You can reach it by foot. 

? Go to Trois Ilets and Pointe du Bout . Many expatriates  live there. There are very nice beaches, stores and restaurants!

Natural swimming pool in Trois Ilets

Day 5 (South West : what to do in Martinique)

  day at anses d’arlet:.

• Visit of the small village
• Visit of the church with the nice view from the pontoon
• Pedal boat activity at the Grande Anse d’Arlet (more info on our article Top 5 activities in Martinique  LIEN )
• Drink/eat at Ti Sable restaurant
• Petite Anse d’Arlet
• Anse Chaudière

Day 3 (East)

  day at the presqu’ile de la caravelle.

• Hike the Grand Sentier de la Caravelle (8 km – 3h round trip). You will cross a beautiful mangrove, follow the Atlantic coastline. There are many passages through the forest. The Caravelle lighthouse is located on the way, on the highest peak of the peninsula. Do not miss: the bay of the treasure and its wild beaches ?.

Caravelle lighthouse

What to do in Martinique in 10 days ?

You will have many things to do in Martinique , we were not bored for a single second! We liked this destination for its beaches, its sea beds, its incredible vegetation and for its authenticity. The island has two coasts , offering very different landscapes. On the Caribbean side, there are small seaside towns, beautiful beaches protected by the coral reef, lagoons with translucent waters called “ white bottoms “… While the Atlantic side is more wild.

Between the north and the south, Martinique offers different aspects, that’s why you should absolutely go around the island. The distances are relatively small so it can be done without any problem! In this article, we propose you a detailed itinerary , day by day, to spend a trip in Martinique at its best.

To discover Martinique’s magnificent landscapes in a more free and unique way. Nothing beats hiring a boat !

Where to stay for your trip in Martinique?

We stayed for two weeks at the Pierre & Vacances village of Sainte-Luce , which is located in the south of Martinique . It was nice to be able to stay in one place during this trip, without having to unpack and repack every day. The village was a good place to stay to discover the island, since the distances to travel from the south to the north are reasonable. We stayed in a 2/3 person studio with a view of the sea, which amazed us every morning.

In addition to being well located, the Pierre & Vacances village of Sainte-Luce   is top! In terms of architecture, we find an authentic side. We also appreciated the numerous activities on the spot: animated evenings (special mention for the karaoke), sport courses, coffee games… Then the beach and the swimming pool were perfect for sunbathing.

Savings on the cost of the trip to Martinique

One of the great things about staying at Pierre & Vacances is the budget. The apartments are equipped with a kitchen, so we did not eat out much. Because yes, restaurants are rather expensive in Martinique! (See the part about the budget at the end of the article).

Reservation and prices: go here

The sun sets on Sainte-Luce…

10 Day Itinerary : what to do in Martinique ?

This itinerary in Martinique can also be done in 15 days, as we did, with a few half days of rest. It is also possible to adapt it to a week by speeding up the movement!

Day 1 (South-East)

• ? Short walk between Anse Moustique and Grande Anse des Salines: Park on the parking lot of Anse Moustique. The road to get there is a bit bumpy but largely doable, just avoid the holes! Anse Moustique is a beautiful and wild beach. The path to Grande Anse des Salines is superb (about 20 min walk). Small precision: you will pass in front of the Petite Anse des Salines (naturist beach).

Anse Moustique – Martinique

On the way…

Grande Anse des Salines – Martinique

• ? Lunch break in one of the restaurants of the Grande Anse des Salines. We chose Chez Suzette to taste the “ poulet boucané ” (typical Martinique meal). Cod acras and a planter are offered for each meal ordered. The prices are reasonable and the quantities are sufficient.
• Hike to the Savane des Pétrifications . These desert landscapes are unusual for an island as flowery as Martinique. The walk is 4 km long and lasts about 2 hours. Park at Anse à Prunes to start the hike. It will end at Anse Trabaud , but you can return to your car by a loop. Be sure to take water and sunscreen with you, there is no shade on this hike!

Une publication partagée par Oh Et Puis (@ohetpuis) le 21 Déc. 2018 à 10 :45 PST

• Sunset at the Grande Anse des Salines . Since you’re next door, go watch the sunset on this huge palm-fringed beach. It promises to be unique!

Day 2 (South-East of Martinique)

 day trip to ilet chevalier , a must-see in martinique..

Access : go to Cap Chevalier by car, park in front of “Taxi Cap” and wait for a shuttle boat . Do not hesitate to call the owner if the shuttle is not there, it is very likely that it is moored on the island waiting to bring back customers. The crossing is done in 3 minutes and costs only 4 euros round trip per person (or 2€ for children).

On the spot, a pontoon, a beautiful beach with crystal clear water and white bottoms , a snack bar – with planters of course – and a steep path to go around the island. The beauty of the place lends itself to swimming as soon as you arrive! Bring a picnic if you do not want to eat at the snack bar. If you do not want to go all the way around, we advise you to go to the other beach at the back of the island in 15 minutes. For that, go to the big rock which overhangs the beach and follow the path between shrubs and cactus. Once on the other side, it is deserted and there is an absolute calm, except when Aurélie discovers a crab a few centimeters away from her in the water!

Little corner of paradise at Ilet Chevalier

Further Reading...

10 Days in Sri Lanka : Itinerary

What to do in Madrid in 3 days?

What to do around Lyon ?

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